kaZ gladysz

Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 2006 and was medically discharged in June 2024. Throughout my career I was posted all along the east coast of Australia and the United States and had several deployments with the Air Force, Navy and the US Navy. I deployed to Papua New Guinea, Pakistan and Afghanistan. I initially joined as a Radiographer before commencing re-specialising training as a Medical Officer from 2018.

Other information: My nickname is Kazbot. I am currently living in Brisbane with my husband, Bart, and sons, Riley (12) and Brody (10). 

Age: 40

Hometown: Gippsland, VIC

Current town: Brisbane, QLD

Competing in: Biathlon, swimming and wheelchair basketball.

What is the nature of your injury or illness? I have a back injury. I have undergone multiple spinal surgeries with unfortunate complications resulting in neurological impairments in both legs. My kids however remind me daily that I am the female version of Wolverine with all the metal now in my spine and pelvis.

Sport background: Growing up I competed in several sports at state level including swimming, diving, touch football and gymnastics. Some of my greatest sporting achievements include winning the Victorian Junior State Championships in 1-metre springboard diving, representing Victoria in touch football, completing the New York marathon and competing in swimming at several state championships.

What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has been such an immense part of my rehabilitation. Coming from a sporting background and not being able to run for over a year now, I sought comfort in finding other sports. Throughout my rehabilitation period, sport has been the one consistent activity that I have been able to get enjoyment from and join in with my family.

How did you feel when you were told you made the Invictus Games team? I was excited and a little nervous, however mostly grateful to have this wonderful opportunity.

What is your greatest achievement to date? Motherhood is a tough one to beat. Also trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp has been an adventure highlight.

Why did you apply for Invictus Games? I wanted to challenge myself and see what I could achieve with sport now that I cannot undertake the same sports as pre-injury.

What will ‘winning’ look like for you at the Games? Being able to complete each event and having fun while doing it. Also being able to support and cheer on fellow competitors and seeing them achieve their goals will be a huge highlight.

Who is supporting you at the Games? My husband and 2 sons will be supporting me at the Games, with other friends and family watching from home.